806 Health Tip: Don’t Let Dehydration Happen To You

It's been a pretty hot summer. I have said this before. With the talk of hotter temperatures there is the chance of dehydration.

Dehydration is very dangerous in the summertime but there are things you need to know to help you this summer.

Did you know that there is more signs dehydration than just thirst? You need to also be on the lookout for dry skin, muscle cramps, headaches and dark urine.

Another thing is that dehydration doesn't necessarily happen right away. You could spend all day in the sun. Get home and think nothing of it....but dehydration can kick in hours or even days later. So you need to be proactive. If you know you will be spending a lot of time out in the sun don't only make sure you stay hydrated on that day but it is important to before and after.

Most people think that "hey it's not hot outside so I will be fine." That is a misconception. Other weather conditions like humidity can hurt you too. When it is muggy you also find yourself sweating out that water. So again stay hydrated in all conditions.

Most people think that they have to drink 8 x 8-ounce glasses of water a day to stay healthy. That is a good starting point but there really is no magic number. Some people will need more and some actually less. It all depends on stuff like our weight and how active you are and other factors like how much alcohol or coffee you drink. If you add in caffeine or alcohol you most definitely need to up your water intake.

You also need more than just water to stay hydrated. You also need to make sure you are up on your electrolytes too. You can get those by drinking sports drinks, coconut water, and even salt in your food.

So you know the sun is going to be beating down on you......how do stay hydrated? How much water do you drink per day? Comment below.